CBD-infused dog food and treats are readily available in the market, reflecting the increasing popularity of CBD as a supplement for humans. However, there is a lack of experimental evidence regarding the long-term safety and effectiveness of oral CBD exposure in dogs. To address this knowledge gap, a study was conducted to assess the suitability and tolerance of a THC-free broad-spectrum CBD distillate in healthy dogs over an extended period.
The study followed a randomized, placebo-controlled, and blinded design, with one group of twenty dogs receiving daily CBD capsules at a dose of 4 mg/kg of body weight for 6 months. The control group of twenty dogs received placebo capsules. Throughout the study, a comprehensive set of physiological health measures was conducted at various intervals, including baseline, 2, 4, 10, 18, and 26 weeks of exposure, followed by a 4-week washout period. CBD concentrations were measured in plasma, feces, and urine at the same intervals.
The health measures included biochemistry, hematology, urinalysis, fortnightly veterinary examinations, twice daily well-being observations, and a daily quality-of-life survey. The results showed no clinically significant changes in biochemistry and hematology, except for a temporary increase in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels in slightly over half of the dogs receiving CBD. Importantly, this increase in ALP occurred without any concurrent elevation in other liver parameters and did not have any adverse effects on the dogs’ health and well-being.
Additionally, bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) levels were also elevated, and there was a strong positive correlation (r > 0.9) between total ALP and BALP, indicating that the increase in ALP was partly due to the bone-derived isoform. Overall, this study provides evidence that a once-daily oral dose of 4 mg CBD/kg of body weight is well tolerated in healthy dogs over a 6-month period.
Okay, aside from all the technical information, we now know that CBD has been established as safe for use in healthy dogs. We cannot assume much about its benefits and potential healing properties, but as it is used in already healthy dogs, it is safe and may provide positive dog-specific effects, such as enjoying a treat that provides a pleasant tasting alternative to other market choices.